Grapefruit Sage Tequila Cooler
Tart grapefruit, earthy sage, tequila, and sparkling water make a bright cooler for late-day sipping.
Prep: 8 · Cook: 2 · Total: 10 · Serves: 2 · Difficulty: Easy · Rating: 4.6/5 (88 reviews)
INSPIRED BY
An original cocktail inspired by grapefruit soda, garden sage, and the clean snap of a tequila cooler.
Story
Theo wants a cocktail that tastes like the first cold drink after a long afternoon outside. Grapefruit brings the tart punch, sage adds a savory edge, and tequila keeps the glass from drifting into juice territory. Sparkling water makes it tall, cold, and easy to refill. Put the snacks nearby and keep the limes moving.
By Theo
Ingredients
- 4 fresh sage leaves
- 1 oz agave syrup
- 1/2 cup fresh grapefruit juice
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 3 oz blanco tequila
- 3 oz sparkling water
- Ice
- Grapefruit wedges, for garnish
- Sage sprigs, for garnish
Instructions
- Add the sage leaves and agave syrup to a cocktail shaker and press gently to release the aroma.
- Add the grapefruit juice, lime juice, tequila, and a handful of ice.
- Shake for 8 seconds until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into two ice-filled highball glasses.
- Top each glass with sparkling water and stir once from the bottom.
- Garnish with grapefruit wedges and sage sprigs, then serve immediately.
Chef Tips
- Press the sage gently so it stays herbal rather than bitter.
- Use blanco tequila with a clean finish for the brightest drink.
- Chill the sparkling water before mixing so the ice does not melt quickly.
- For a zero-proof cooler, replace the tequila with extra sparkling water and a splash of tonic.
Cook's Notes
- Chill the sparkling water before mixing.
- Press the sage lightly to avoid bitterness.
- Use fresh grapefruit juice for the cleanest finish.
- Add the bubbles last so the cooler stays lively.